LITTLE BLACK BOOK
What can a savvy traveller find in Jordan’s capital city? With a lot of patience, lots of secrets. Nature Calls Ajloun Forest
Art Hub Darat al Funun
“When I want a dose of culture, I head to Darat al Funun. This place is magical – wonderful art, readings, lectures and location.” Darat al Funun’s hillside terrace, nestled amid gardens, sculptures and classical Arabic architecture, is also the perfect place to savour the cityscape with a cup of tea or lemonade.
Neighbourhood Jebel Weibdeh
I head “To escape the bustle of city life g takin de trysi coun n ania Jord the to ings a nice, long drive until the build for disappear.” Favoured destinations the de inclu alike locals and tourists d Ajloun Forest in the north, the Dea the to ngs Spri Hot n Ma’i the Sea and southwest of the capital.
Unwind Landmark Hotel
“I unwind at the rooftop terrace of the Landmark Hotel – which I feel is one of the most underrated of Amman’s many restaurants and lounges.” Guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the city while dining at the rooftop restaurant Turquoise, a Turkish eatery inspired by world-renowned chef Greg Malouf.
Amman is a series of hills and valleys, or jebels and wadis – giving the capital a dramatic, undulating skyline. Since major sections of the city sit atop hills, they are known as jebels. “My favourite neighbourhood is Jebel Weibdeh, a quaint quarter of the city that has a rich cultural history. It still feels like a neighbourhood. It’s cosy and reminds me of Palestine. Plus I love the literary element - you can find it in the street names.” Check out the art on display at the Jordan National Gallery in Jabal Weibdeh, which has the world’s largest collection of art from developing countries.
2013 January / February 71